Complete guide to approvals: ECE R90, Leafmark, and other seals you should know about

At SDT Brakes we always say the same thing: when it comes to safety, there is no room for shortcuts. The braking system is the most critical component of your vehicle, and the certification of brake pads is not a mere legal formality; it is a guarantee that the product has undergone rigorous tests for quality, performance and reliability.

Today we want to clarify what the main certification marks mean, why they are important and which products in our catalog meet these requirements.

What ECE R90 certification is and what it guarantees

ECE R90 is the gold standard in Europe for brake pads and shoes. This regulation requires that:

  • The braking performance of replacement pads be between 90% and 150% of OEM (original equipment).
  • Manufacturers maintain consistent production processes with strict quality controls.

In other words, with an ECE R90 certified pad, you have the certainty that your car will continue to brake predictably, safely and in line with the original systems (ABS, stability control, etc.).

Check out our SDT homologated ECE R90 brake pads designed for passenger cars, SUVs, and light commercial vehicles.

Other relevant certifications

In addition to ECE R90, there are other seals we recommend considering:

  • Leafmark: guarantees copper-free or low-copper compounds, reducing brake dust water contamination. A safe and environmentally responsible choice.
  • ISO 9001: ensures the manufacturer has a documented and controlled quality system, meaning consistency in each batch.
  • Market-specific certifications (ABE, SEMA, etc.): strengthen confidence in markets with particular requirements.

Why homologation is essential for high-performance brakes

There’s a mistaken idea that sports brakes don’t need homologation. From our experience, we hold the opposite: any high-performance product must comply with the same regulations as a standard brake if it will be used on public roads.

  • Road safety: Prevents premature lockups or braking imbalance.
  • Legality and insurance: Using non-homologated components can lead to fines or insurance issues.
  • Confidence in quality: A brand that certifies its products demonstrates real investment in development and testing.

SDT Brakes homologated products

At SDT Brakes, homologation is not just an objective—it’s the starting point. All our products meet or exceed the most demanding European standards.

SDT Series ECE R90 Pads

Designed for users seeking safety, comfort, and full compatibility with ABS/ESP. They are the perfect daily option, with improved durability and low dust generation.

¿Discover them here: SDT ECE R90 Brake Pads

Conclusion

Homologation in brakes is not a secondary detail. It’s the guarantee that every brake will be safe, legal, and reliable. At SDT Brakes, we understand the product this way: performance, quality, and homologation are inseparable.

If you want to improve your vehicle’s braking system, our recommendation is clear:

  • Always check the product’s homologation.
  • Choose brands that comply with ECE R90 and additional certifications.
  • Invest in your safety and peace of mind.

Explore our range of homologated SDT Brakes pads and kits, and equip your car with the confidence of legality and top-quality components.

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